Aodhán Ó Ríordáin
Question:86. Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Minister for Education what measures can be taken to ensure that all schools offer an option to opt out of studying religion at Junior Certificate level. [22880/23]
View answerSchool Curriculum
Questions (86)
Written answers
The Department does not require schools to include the NCCA-developed Religious Education syllabuses at Junior or Senior Cycle as mandatory subjects on their curriculum. Accordingly schools have discretion to determine if they provide the subject at all or if it is to be mandatory or optional in any particular class group or year.
Section 30 of the 1998 Education Act provides that a child is not required to attend instruction in any subject that is contrary to the conscience of the parent, this also applies to students over the age of 18. It is expected that this right will be upheld by schools on foot of a parental request.
The manner in which any school ensures that the right to opt out of religion instruction classes is upheld, is a matter for the school concerned. Each individual school must determine the particular arrangements which are most appropriate in its individual circumstances having regard to local issues such as available space, supervision requirements and how the school concerned organises classes etc.
Schools Building Projects
Questions (87)
Paul McAuliffe
Question:87. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Education if she will provide an update on a new school building project (details supplied); if she will provide an estimated timeframe from construction to completion; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22867/23]
View answerWritten answers
The major building project for the school referred to by the Deputy will be delivered under the Department's ADAPT Programme.
The ADAPT Programme uses a professional external Project Manager to co-ordinate and drive the Design Team to achieve the best possible timeframe for the project through the stages of Architectural Planning to Tender and Construction.
The tender process to appoint the Design Team for this major project is currently underway.
The Project Manager is in contact with the school authorities in relation to the appointment of the Design Team, which is anticipated to be completed in Quarter 2 of 2023.
Upon appointment, the Design Team will proceed to the initial stage of Architectural Planning, Stage 1 – Preliminary Design, where the Design Team will assess the site and prepare their initial sketch schemes. A preferred design option, including the scope and extent of works to be carried out will be established during this early stage.
Until the project design is at a stage where statutory approvals, planning permission, etc are secured by the Design Team, it will not be possible to provide an estimated onsite date.
Special Educational Needs
Questions (88)
David Stanton
Question:88. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Education if she will provide an update on her Department’s announcement of 12 April 2023 of the establishment of a special school in Carrigtwohill, County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22629/23]
View answerWritten answers
I would like to thank the Deputy for the question and would like to advise the following:
Enabling children with special educational needs (SEN) to receive an education appropriate to their needs is a priority for this Government.
It is also a key priority for me as Minister for Special Education & Inclusion, for my Department and for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
For 2023, the spend by my Department on special education will be substantially increased by over 10% on last year, meaning that for 2023 my Department will spend over €2.6 billion providing supports to children and young people with special educational needs and their schools.
This level of educational funding and support is unprecedented and represents in excess of 27% of the Department’s total allocation for 2023.
This includes funding to support children with SEN in mainstream classes; funding for new special classes and new special school places; additional special educational teachers and special needs assistants.
The NCSE has responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children with special educational needs nationwide.
Over the last two to three years, my Department and the NCSE have introduced a number of strategic initiatives to plan for and provide sufficient special class and special school places.
These initiatives are bearing fruit with over 600 new special classes sanctioned at primary level, almost 300 new special classes sanctioned at post-primary level and five new special schools established over the last three years.
Two of these new special schools were established in Co. Cork – Carrigaline Community Special School and the new Rochestown Community Special School which opened very recently.
Just recently on 12th April, Minister Foley and l announced that a further special school will be established in Carrigtwohill, east Cork.
The new special school will be under the patronage of Cork ETB. It is intended that places in the new special schools will be prioritised for children who have no offer of a special school place for the 2023/24 school year.
My Department, the NCSE and Cork ETB are having ongoing engagement in relation to planning for the establishment of the new special school.
The arrangements and location for the initial establishment of the new special school are currently being finalised with Cork ETB.
My Department is also actively exploring the options for the permanent location for the new special school and will be liaising with Cork ETB in relation to same.
Other elements of the planning for the new school, including the appointment of a school principal and the development of an Admission’s Policy are being progressed.
In relation to special classes, the NCSE have sanctioned 305 new special classes for the coming school year 2023/2024, with more to be confirmed in the coming weeks – 197 at primary and 108 at post-primary level. Of these new classes, 67 are in Co. Cork, with 49 at primary level and 18 at post-primary level. These new classes will bring the total number of special classes in Co. Cork to 487, 348 at primary and 139 at post-primary.
The NCSE has advised my Department that it continues to work with schools to ensure all students identified as requiring places in the special class meet the Department of Education’s criteria for enrolment in a special class.
Parents seeking special class placements for their children are advised to contact the NCSE locally so that their needs can be taken into account for planning purposes. The local SENOs remain available to assist and advise parents of children with special educational needs. Parents may contact SENOs directly using the contact details available at: ncse.ie/regional-services-contact-list .
Information on the list of schools with special classes, the types and locations of these classes is published on the NCSE website and is available at www.ncse.ie
I want to reassure you also that my Department will continue to support the NCSE and schools through the provision of the necessary funding and capital investment to ensure all children are successful in accessing an education.
School Transport
Questions (89)
James O'Connor
Question:89. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Education if she can provide the number of applications made for the school transport scheme within Cork county; if there is an increase in applications in the Cork East constituency, if her Department will increase the number of buses required to fulfil the number of applications; if her Department will consider raising the ceiling age of 70 years for bus drivers to help increase the number of bus drivers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22892/23]
View answerWritten answers
The School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education. In the current school year, over 149,000 children, including over 18,000 children with special educational needs, are transported on a daily basis to primary and post-primary schools throughout the country. There has been an increase of 21% tickets issued to eligible students and 38% tickets issued on a concessionary basis in the current 2022/23 school year compared to the 2021/22 school year.
In addition, school transport scheme services are being provided in the current school year for over 5,200 children who have arrived to Ireland from Ukraine.
The total cost of the scheme in 2022 was €338.9m.
The School Transport Scheme is an important service for families and children. The purpose of the Department's School Transport Scheme is, having regard to available resources, to support the transport to and from school of children who reside remote from their nearest school.
Bus Éireann have advised that the number of applications made for the school transport scheme within Cork county for the 2022/23 school year as compared to the applications made for the 2021/22 school year are outlined below. It is not possible to break these applications into constituencies within the county.
|
County of School |
School Year 21/22 |
School Year 22/23 |
Difference |
% Increase |
Source Data Accurate as of |
|
Cork Mainstream Applications |
18340 |
21968 |
3628 |
19.78% |
30/03/2022 & 30/03/2023 |
|
Cork SEN Applications |
794 |
833 |
39 |
4.91% |
11/05/2022 & 11/05/2023 |
|
Cork Ukrainian Applications |
123 |
605 |
482 |
391.87% |
13/05/2022 & 12/05/2023 |
With regard to planning services for the 2023/2024 school year, Bus Éireann will review applications and plan routes during the summer months. The closing date for new applications for the 2023/2024 school year was Friday 28th April. The closing date for payment/entering medical details for tickets for the 2023/2024 school year in Friday 9th June. It is only after this time that Bus Éireann will know how many applications have been received and paid for, and, at that point services will be planned for the upcoming school year. Pending completion of the School Transport review, there will be no removal or downsizing of buses/routes for the 2023/2024 school year.
With regard to raising the age limit for school bus drivers, it is Bus Éireann company policy that normal retirement age for all Bus Éireann staff is currently 66 years. However, Bus Éireann part-time school bus drivers and drivers nominated by private operators who operate service as part of the School Transport Scheme may continue to perform in the role provided they hold the requisite license and satisfy an annual medical examination until they retire at age 70. This policy and criteria is applied to all drivers who provide school transport services on behalf of Bus Éireann equally.
The age limit on school bus drivers was increased to 70 years a number of years ago. While Bus Éireann have informed the Department there is no plan to increase the age limit further at this time, the matter will continue to be kept under review.
Schools Building Projects
Questions (90)
Jennifer Murnane O'Connor
Question:90. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Education to provide an update on school building projects in Carlow; how many new schools are in planning stage; how many new school builds have started; how many have yet to be tendered for; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22622/23]
View answerWritten answers
Under Project Ireland 2040, my Department is investing €4.4 billion over the period 2021 to 2025, to add capacity and develop and upgrade school facilities across the country for the almost one million students and over 100,000 staff that learn and work in our schools every day. Over the last 3 years this Government has invested €2.6 billion in school buildings. This is a record level of investment and has helped to add capacity and modernise existing accommodation in schools throughout the country.
The Department of Education has a strong track record of delivery of school building projects, and this was achieved again in 2022 notwithstanding the wider construction sector environment of high inflation, labour shortages and supply chain issues. There were over 180 school building projects delivered during 2022 which included accelerated delivery of modular accommodation, responding to increasing prevalence of special education needs, to facilitate additional capacity in special classes and special schools to cater for over 900 children. Circa. 300 school building projects continued in construction at the start of 2023 - the majority of which will be completed over the course of this year and early 2024. In this regard, it is worth noting that there were over 50 new school buildings under construction over the course of 2022. This is providing high quality new and energy efficient modern facilities in schools throughout the country.
The current status of all projects, including those in Co. Carlow, are listed on a county by county basis at www.gov.ie. and is updated on a regular basis to reflect their progress through the various stages of capital appraisal, site acquisition, design, tender and construction.
School Admissions
Questions (91)
Patrick Costello
Question:91. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Education her plans to address the under-provision of secondary schools in Dublin 8. [22895/23]
View answerWritten answers
I can assure the Deputy that the provision of school places to meet the needs of children and young people at primary and post primary level, including children and young people with special educational needs is an absolute priority for my Department.
In order to plan for school place needs, my Department divides the country into 314 school planning areas and utilises a Geographical Information System to anticipate school place demand. Information from a range of sources, including Child Benefit data, school enrolment data and information on residential development activity is used for this purpose. Additionally, Project Ireland 2040 population and housing targets inform my Department's projections of school place requirements.
The most recent analysis undertaken by my Department indicates that 85% of the 314 school planning areas at primary level show static or decreasing enrolments for the period to 2026 compared with 2021. At post primary level, 74% of school planning areas are anticipated to have increased enrolments for the period to 2029, with most expected to reach a peak within the next two or three years.
The level of demand volume across school planning areas with an increasing net requirement ranges from small to medium increases that are likely to be accommodated by existing schools through to significant projected growth that may require additional provision. Where data indicates that additional provision is required at primary or post primary level, the delivery of such additional provision is dependent on the particular circumstances of each case and may be provided through either one, or a combination of, the following:
• Utilising existing unused capacity within a school or schools,
• Extending the capacity of a school or schools,
• Provision of a new school or schools.
My Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking school places in the area. In relation to school admissions, it is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of all schools to implement an enrolment policy in accordance with the Education Act, 1998.
My officials will continue to keep school place requirements in Dublin 8, as with other areas across the country, under review, with a view to identifying any potential requirement for increased provision in the area. Additionally, the Department will continue to liaise with the Local Authority in respect of its statutory planning processes with a view to identifying any ensuring that appropriate provision is in place to meet long-term needs.
Special Educational Needs
Questions (92)
Matt Carthy
Question:92. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Education her plans to establish further ASD units in schools in County Monaghan. [22818/23]
View answerWritten answers
I would like to thank the Deputy for the question and would like to advise the following:
Enabling children with special educational needs (SEN) to receive an education appropriate to their needs is a priority for this Government.
It is also a key priority for me as Minister for Special Education & Inclusion, for my Department and for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
For 2023, the spend by my Department on special education will be substantially increased by over 10% on last year, meaning that for 2023 my Department will spend over €2.6 billion providing supports to children and young people with special educational needs and their schools.
This level of educational funding and support is unprecedented and represents in excess of 27% of the Department’s total allocation for 2023.
This includes funding to support children with SEN in mainstream classes; funding for new special classes and new special school places; additional special educational teachers and special needs assistants.
The NCSE has responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children with special educational needs nationwide.
Over the last two to three years, my Department and the NCSE have introduced a number of strategic initiatives to plan for and provide sufficient special class and special school places.
These initiatives are bearing fruit with over 600 new special classes sanctioned at primary level, almost 300 new special classes sanctioned at post-primary level and five new special schools established over the last three years.
My Department is engaging intensely with the NCSE in relation to the forward planning of new special classes and additional special school places. This work involves a detailed review of statistical data in relation to forecasting demand for special class places, consideration of improved data sharing arrangements and a particular focus on the provision of special classes at post-primary level.
As a result of this forward planning, on the 12th of April, Minister Foley and I announced the establishment of 2 new special schools for the 2023/2024 school year, with further capacity being expanded in 11 other special schools.
Along with the two new special schools, 305 new special classes – 197 at primary and 108 at post-primary level – have been sanctioned by the NCSE for opening in the 2023/24 school year, with more to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Of these new classes, 3 are in Co. Monaghan, with 2 at primary level and 1 at post-primary level. These new classes will bring the total number of special classes in Co. Monaghan to 42, 28 at primary and 14 at post-primary.
As demand for new special classes at post-primary level is expected to increase significantly over the next few years, due to increasing demographics and increasing prevalence rates, my Department and the NCSE have engaged with post-primary stakeholders in relation to the provision of special classes.
In October of last year, my Department wrote to all post-primary schools to advise them of the need to begin planning to provide additional special classes. It is envisaged that all post-primary schools will be required to provide special classes over the next 3 to 5 years, with an approximate average of 4 special classes in each school.
Parents seeking special class placements for their children are advised to contact the NCSE locally so that their needs can be taken into account for planning purposes. The local SENOs remain available to assist and advise parents of children with special educational needs. Parents may contact SENOs directly using the contact details available at: ncse.ie/regional-services-contact-list .
Information on the list of schools with special classes, the types and locations of these classes is published on the NCSE website and is available at www.ncse.ie
I want to reassure you also that my Department will continue to support the NCSE and schools through the provision of the necessary funding and capital investment to ensure all children are successful in accessing an education.
Schools Building Projects
Questions (93)
Claire Kerrane
Question:93. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Education if she will provide an update on when a school (details supplied) will progress to the next stage of their building project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22809/23]
View answerWritten answers
The school to which the Deputy refers to was approved funding under my Department's Additional School Accommodation (ASA) Scheme for the provision of 7 x General Classrooms, En-suite Toilet & 1 x Assisted Toilet, 2 x SEN Base & Purchase of Interim Accommodation of 1 x 100m2 General Classroom. The project has been devolved to the school authority for delivery.
My Department issued a letter of approval in respect of the Modular Accommodation and the final drawdown of funds was issued recently. The school authorities have submitted a Stage 1 Design Report in respect of the other aspects of the ASA project which has been forwarded to my Department's Technical Team for review. Once this review is complete, the Department will advise the school authorities directly regarding the next stage of the process.
Special Educational Needs
Questions (94, 345)
Pearse Doherty
Question:94. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Education if she has considered the correspondence sent to her by a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22728/23]
View answerPearse Doherty
Question:345. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Education if she is aware of the need for an ASD room in a school (details supplied); if she has considered the suitability for such an addition to the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22498/23]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 94 and 345 together.
I would like to thank the Deputy for the question and would like to advise the following:
My Department is committed to delivering an education system that is of the highest quality and where every child and young person feels valued and is actively supported and nurtured to reach their full potential. My Department strives to ensure that every child has access to an educational experience that is appropriate to their needs and supports both their academic and personal development. The vast majority of children with special educational needs are supported to attend mainstream classes with their peers. Where children with more complex needs require additional supports, special classes and special school places are provided.
As part of Budget 2023, my Department’s budget for special education was substantially increased, by over 10%, meaning that for 2023 the Department will spend over €2.6 billion on special education. This level of educational funding and support is unprecedented and represents in excess of 27% of the Department’s total allocation for 2023. This includes additional teaching and care supports.
We have made a lot of progress over the last three years in terms of providing special classes and special school places with over 600 new special classes sanctioned at primary level, almost 300 new special classes sanctioned at post-primary level and five new special schools established over the last three years.
There are a total of 2,537 special classes opened nationwide. Of the 2,537 special classes, there are 1,798 at primary level and 739 at post primary level. We want to continue this level of progress to ensure that there are sufficient places in special classes and special schools for children who need them.
Just recently on 12th April, Minister Foley and I announced the establishment of two new special schools as part of a comprehensive update on enhanced education provision for students with special educational needs. This will bring to 7 the number of new special schools established in the last 3 years. Capacity is also being expanded in 11 other special schools.
Along with the two new special schools, 305 new special classes have been sanctioned by the NCSE for the 2023/24 school year, with more to be confirmed in the coming weeks – 197 at primary and 108 at post-primary level.
Of these new classes, 12 are in Co. Donegal, with 7 at primary level and 5 at post-primary level. These new classes will bring the total number of special classes in Co. Donegal to 109, 64 at primary and 45 at post-primary.
In relation to the school referred to by the Deputy, the NCSE has advised my Department that this school expressed an interest in opening a special class in March this year.
The NCSE actively encourages expressions of interest from schools to open special classes, and I appreciate the effort taken by the Board of Management in expressing their interest.
Upon assessing the needs in the local area, the NCSE identified that there were schools in the neighbouring vicinity with available special class vacancies and, as such, an additional special class is not required in this school at this time. The NCSE acknowledge that circumstances may change, and they are committed to ensuring that both the parents and the school receive the necessary advice and support.
My Department and the NCSE is committed to ensuring that sufficient special education placements will be available for children for the coming school years.
The local SENOs remain available to assist and advise parents of children with special educational needs.
I want to reassure you also that my Department will continue to support the NCSE and schools through the provision of the necessary funding and capital investment to ensure all children are successful in accessing an appropriate education.
School Admissions
Questions (95)
Holly Cairns
Question:95. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Education her plans to address a shortage of school places in the Cork south-west area. [22802/23]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy will be aware, for school planning purposes, my Department divides the country into 314 school planning areas and utilises a Geographical Information System to anticipate school place demand. Information from a range of sources, including Child Benefit data, school enrolment data and information on residential development activity is used for this purpose. Additionally, Project Ireland 2040 population and housing targets inform my Department's projections of school place requirements.
In response to school place requirements in the area, there has already been significant capital investment into the primary and post-primary schools in South West Cork including new schools to increase mainstream and special class pupil places. In total, there are currently 45 school building projects across schools in South West Cork at various stages of planning and delivery. This includes at primary level Gaelscoil Droichead na Banndan in Bandon which is a new school build currently under construction and will include 1 additional mainstream classroom and 2 additional SEN classes and Gaelscoil Cionn tSaile in Kinsale who are adding an additional 5 mainstream classes to their school.
At Post-Primary level Coláiste na Toirbhirte in Bandon is constructing an extension which will bring it to a total capacity of 1,000 students plus provision with special educational needs and Sacred Heart Secondary School are receiving a new build which will consist of a new 600 pupil school, plus provision for students with special educational needs. Kinsale Community School is also proceeding with a project to provide total capacity for 1,350 students as well as increased provision for students with special educational needs.
While my Department is aware of enrolment pressures and demand for additional school places in some areas, it is important to note that where enrolment pressures arise, it may not be as a result of lack of accommodation but may be driven by the following factors:
• Duplication of applications – pupils have applied for a place to a number of schools in the area
• School of choice – pupils can’t get a place in their preferred school while there are places in other schools in the town/area
• Some towns/areas have single sex schools and while places are available in the school they are not available to all pupils
• External draw – pupils coming from outside the local area
My Department will continue to work to advance the planned and current projects in South West Cork and to ensure sufficient places for both mainstream provision and for pupils with special education requirements, both for the coming academic year and into the future. My officials will continue to monitor enrolment trends, population growth, and residential development in the city and to keep school place requirements under review. In particular, the impact on school place demand of new arrivals, including Ukrainian students, will inform my Department’s assessment of school accommodation needs.
Additionally there will be continued engagement with patrons and school authorities with a view to identifying at an early stage any particular capacity requirements for the forthcoming years which may necessitate further action to that already in train.
School Staff
Questions (96, 112, 115, 355, 382)
Aodhán Ó Ríordáin
Question:96. Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Minister for Education if she is aware of the increasing demand for a comprehensive nationwide redeployment system for post-primary teachers; if her Department has conducted research into the potential for such a system to alleviate pressures on climate change, teacher wellbeing and teacher retention; what her views are on the potential for such a system; and if she will she now schedule talks with stakeholders, including trade unions and interest groups, to address this issue. [22914/23]
View answer
Colm Burke
Question:112. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Education if her Department is engaging with stakeholders (details supplied) with regards to the establishment of a nationwide teacher transfer system for post-primary teachers given that the establishment of such a scheme and/or online portal would be beneficial to the wellbeing of teachers, including benefiting their home life and family life, and would see a reduction in large commutes by teachers and help to reduce their carbon footprint, which is in line with Irish and European Parliament position on climate targets; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22907/23]
View answerClaire Kerrane
Question:115. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Education if she will provide an update on work underway in her Department to examine the possibility of a teacher relocation scheme at post-primary level; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22810/23]
View answer
Sorca Clarke
Question:355. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Education the counties currently part of the pilot post primary voluntary redeployment scheme and what work has been undertaking to extend this scheme to other counties given the concerns around recruiting and retaining teachers. [23165/23]
View answer
Gary Gannon
Question:382. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Education given the current issues relating to climate change wellbeing and teacher retention, would she accept that the provision of a working, nationwide redeployment system for post primary teachers could alleviate each of these problems to some extent; and given the benefits of such a system would, she now schedule talks with the stakeholders to specifically address this major issue. [23276/23]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 96, 112, 115, 355 and 382 together.
The recruitment and appointment of teachers to fill teaching posts is a matter for each individual school authority as the employer. The deployment of teaching staff in the school, the range of subjects offered and ultimately the quality of teaching and learning are in the first instance a matter for the school management authorities.
Post primary schools employ teachers with the appropriate subject mix to provide for a range of subjects that can be offered to students. It is an important aspect of the annual timetabling process that schools work towards achieving this outcome where possible. Matching the subject mix on offer with the qualifications of individual teachers who typically have more than one subject, can be a challenging task for schools. It is important that schools as employers retain the flexibility to employ teachers with the capacity to teach varied subjects to maintain a wide range of subjects on offer to students.
The core function of the redeployment arrangements is to facilitate the redeployment of surplus permanent teachers to other schools where vacancies exist. Ensuring efficiency in the annual redeployment processes is significant in terms of managing the overall teacher numbers.
At Post-Primary level, following discussions between the relevant stakeholders, a voluntary redeployment scheme has operated on a pilot basis in specific regions in recent years. Permanent teachers employed in these regions are given an opportunity to volunteer for a transfer to other areas of the country only if such a transfer would free up a vacancy that would facilitate the redeployment of a surplus permanent teacher in the region.
The key purpose of the pilot voluntary redeployment scheme is to assist the Department to achieve its objective of redeploying all surplus permanent teachers. To date the pilot voluntary redeployment scheme has operated in 24 counties.
The teacher redeployment arrangements are reviewed annually by my Department involving the education stakeholders, including teacher unions and management bodies. As part of the review, the Education Stakeholders can raise issues or concerns with the Department in relation to the operation of the redeployment process generally. It is open to members of the school community to liaise with their representative bodies on any matters of concern they may have.
The review in respect of the 2023/24 redeployment process took place last December. The pilot voluntary redeployment scheme operated in counties Laois, Offaly, Longford and Westmeath in the current school year. The criteria for the allocation of teachers to schools including the redeployment arrangements for the 2023/24 school year is available on the Department's website.
Teachers who apply under the pilot voluntary scheme and are not facilitated with a transfer continue to have the option of applying for posts in their preferred location that are advertised in the normal manner.
My Department has received a report proposing the introduction of a Teacher Relocation Scheme from a working group established by one of the teacher unions. The Department will give this careful consideration and arrangements are being made for Department officials to meet with the teacher union in the coming weeks to discuss this report.
School Transport
Questions (97)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Question:97. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education if the ongoing school transport review will facilitate children in September 2023 who cannot gain access to their nearest school due to a shortage of school places and would then not qualify for school transport as they would not be attending their nearest school or second nearest school; if she will give specific consideration to an area (details supplied) in County Cork which experiences this issue every year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22491/23]
View answerWritten answers
The School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf my Department. In the current school year, over 149,000 children, including over 18,000 children with special educational needs, are transported on a daily basis to primary and post-primary schools throughout the country. In addition, school transport scheme services are being provided in the current school year for over 5,200 children who have arrived to Ireland from Ukraine.
The total cost of the scheme in 2022 was €338.9m.
A review of the School Transport Scheme is underway. The review is being conducted with a view to examining the current scheme, its broader effectiveness and sustainability, and to ensure that it serves students and their families adequately.
Phase 1 of the review, which was completed in June 2021, examined the impact of eligibility criteria on mainstream pupils who were eligible for transport to their nearest school but attending their next nearest school.
Following consideration of this report, for the 2021/2022 school year, the provision of temporary alleviation measures was approved for transport for post-primary students who were otherwise eligible for school transport, but were attending their second nearest school and had applied and paid on time. These measures have been continued for the current school year, and will again continue in the 2023/2024 school year pending completion of the review.
It is planned the review will be completed shortly with recommendations on the future operation of the Department’s School Transport Scheme. Once approved by Government, it is planned that the review will be published.
For the 2023/2024 school year, it remains that children are eligible for transport at primary level where they reside not less than 3.2 kilometres from and are attending their nearest national school, and at post primary level where they reside not less than 4.8 kilometres from and are attending their nearest post primary school/education centre as determined by the Department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language.
Children who are eligible for school transport and who complete the application process on time are accommodated on school transport services where such services are in operation.
Children who are not eligible for school transport, but who complete the application process on time, are considered for spare seats that may exist after eligible children have been facilitated; such seats are referred to as concessionary seats.
If families have applied to attend their nearest school and have been advised by the school authorities that it is full, the Department of Education will consider if students can be deemed eligible for transport to the next nearest school. These families can submit details to the School Transport Section in the Department of Education where their request can be assessed.
Oideachas trí Ghaeilge
Questions (98)
Catherine Connolly
Question:98. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Catherine Connolly den Aire Oideachais maidir le Ceist Pharlaiminte 13643/23, soiléiriú a thabhairt ar an dul chun cinn atá déanta maidir leis an bplean chun beartas cuimsitheach don Ghaeilge sa chóras oideachais, idir leibhéal an oideachais réamhscoile agus leibhéal an oideachais do mhúinteoirí, a fhorbairt agus a fhoilsiú; cathain a fhoilseofar an beartas nua; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [22853/23]
View answerWritten answers
Tá obair ar siúl faoi láthair i mo Roinnse chun polasaí nua don oideachas lán-Ghaeilge lasmuigh den Ghaeltacht a fhorbairt. Tógfaidh an polasaí seo ar an méid atá bainte amach ag an bPolasaí don Oideachas Gaeltachta, agus beidh sé mar chéim thábhachtach eile i dtreo ghealltanas Chlár an Rialtais maidir le forbairt an pholasaí chuimsithigh don Ghaeilge sa chóras oideachais a chomhlíonadh. Déanfar an polasaí don oideachas lán-Ghaeilge a fhorbairt i gcomhthéacs na Straitéise 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge 2010-2030.
Bunaíodh coiste stiúrtha le hionadaithe ó na Ranna Rialtais agus ó na Gníomhaireachtaí Rialtais ábhartha chun maoirseacht a dhéanamh ar fhorbairt an pholasaí.
Coimisiúnaíodh athbhreithniú ar litríocht náisiúnta agus idirnáisiúnta trí phróiseas soláthair phoiblí le bheith mar bhonn eolais d’fhorbairt an pholasaí.
Cuireadh próiseas comhairliúcháin phoiblí ar bun ar an 27 Deireadh Fómhair 2022 chun tuairimí páirtithe leasmhara a fháil; daoine óga, tuismitheoirí, gairmithe oideachais, páirtithe leasmhara oideachais agus eagraíochta Gaeilge ina measc. Tháinig deireadh leis an gcéad tréimhse den phróiseas comhairliúcháin, a chuimsigh ceistneoir ar líne agus iarraidh ar aighneachtaí scríofa, ar an 30 Eanáir 2023.
Cuirfear críoch leis an dara tréimhse den chomhairliúchán laistigh de mhí. Mar chuid den dara tréimhse sin reáchtáladh grúpaí fócais le páistí agus le daoine óga le cinntiú go mbeidh a nguthanna curtha san áireamh mar chuid de phróiseas forbartha an pholasaí. Tá grúpaí fócais le tuismitheoirí, caomhnóirí, oideachasóirí agus páirtithe leasmhara eile ar siúl faoi láthair le fiosrú a dhéanamh ar théamaí tábhachtacha atá ag teacht chun cinn.
Cuirfear tús leis an tríú tréimhse den chomhairliúchán go luath ina reáchtálfar cruinnithe dé-thaobhacha le páirtithe leasmhara ábhartha.
Táim an-sásta leis an méid suime atá léirithe sa chomhairliúchán go dtí seo, agus le líon na bhfreagraí a fuarthas. Tá anailís á dhéanamh ag Sealbhú, DCU, faoi láthair ar na haighneachtaí, na freagraí ar na ceistneoirí agus na sonraí ó na grúpaí fócais a bailíodh mar chuid den chéad dá thréimhse den phróiseas comhairliúcháin. Braithfidh an fráma-ama a bhainfidh le forbairt an pholasaí nua don oideachas lán-Ghaeilge lasmuigh den Ghaeltacht ar an méid ama atá de dhíth le hobair na hanailíse don trí thréimhse a chur i gcrích. Pléifear é sin leis an gCoiste Stiúrtha in am tráth.
Táim ag súil leis an obair thábhachtach seo a chur chun cinn, chun an t-oideachas lán-Ghaeilge a neartú agus chun tógáil ar na torthaí dearfacha atá á mbaint amach cheana féin i gcur i bhfeidhm an Pholasaí don Oideachas Gaeltachta. Táim ag tnúth go mór le bheith ag obair le páirtithe leasmhara ábhartha i bhforbairt an pholasaí seo.
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Work on the development of a new policy on Irish-medium education outside of the Gaeltacht is currently underway in my Department. This policy will build on the achievements of the Policy on Gaeltacht Education and will be an important next step towards achieving the Programme for Government commitment to develop a comprehensive policy on Irish in the education system. The policy on Irish-medium education will be developed in the context of the overall framework of the 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030.
A steering committee has been established with representatives from relevant Government Departments and Agencies to oversee the development of the policy.
A review of national and international literature has been commissioned through a public procurement process to inform the development of the policy.
A public consultation process commenced on 27 October 2022 to gather the views of stakeholders, including young people, parents, education professionals, education stakeholders and Irish-language organisations. The first phase of the consultation process, which included an online questionnaire and a call for written submissions, closed on 30 January 2023.
The second phase of the consultation will reach completion within the coming month. Focus groups were conducted with children and young people, as part of this phase, to ensure their voices were included in the policy development process. Focus groups to explore important themes that are arising are currently taking place with parents, guardians, educators and other stakeholders.
Phase three of the consultation will commence shortly, in which bilateral meetings with relevant stakeholders will be held.
I am very pleased with the level of interest that has been demonstrated in this consultation to date, and with the number of responses received. Sealbhú, DCU are currently analysing the written submissions, responses to questionnaires and focus group related data which has been collected during the first two phases of the consultation. The time-frame for the development of the policy on Irish-medium education outside of the Gaeltacht will depend upon the time required to complete analysis in respect of the three phases of the consultation. This will be discussed with the Steering Committee in due course.
I look forward to progressing this important work of strengthening Irish-medium education provision and building on the positive outcomes already being achieved in the implementation of the Policy on Gaeltacht Education. I also look forward to working with relevant stakeholders in the development of this policy.
Special Educational Needs
Questions (99)
Réada Cronin
Question:99. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Education how many SENOs are currently working in North Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22674/23]
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The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of Special needs Organisers (SENOs), for fulfilling the functions of the Council within a designated area in relation to the identification of and delivery and co-ordination of education services to children with disabilities.
The Council employs SENOs to provide a nationwide system of local services. Locally based SENOs consult widely with parents/guardians, teachers, health care professionals, school authorities, HSE and other relevant government agencies.
SENOs are assigned by region, rather than on a county basis. The North Kildare area falls under South East Team 2, which currently comprises 3.5 SENOs, team manager and regional manager. The recent SENO recruitment competition, which concluded last month, has led to the NCSE extending offers of employment to successful candidates. Consequently, newly appointed SENOs are expected to be assigned to schools across Kildare shortly.
In addition, where a SENO vacancy arises, a SENO point of contact is assigned to the area to assist schools, parents and local services until the position is filed. Essential services are maintained through cover provided from available staff resources. If parents are unsure of the SENO for their area, they can contact the team manager for the region, who will be able to inform them of the SENO’s details providing interim cover. A list of Regional Manager, Team Manager, and SENO contact details can be found on the regional contact list on the NCSE website.
It is a priority that the NCSE is properly resourced to have a visible and effective presence in our schools and to guide and support our parents and children on their educational journey. The funding announced in budget 2023 will see an increase of over 50% in overall staffing levels in the NCSE, with an up to 60% increase in the case of SENOs. The overall increase will provide for an additional 161 staff in front line and administrative posts. This commitment will rise to a €13 million investment in a full year and will ensure it can continue to deliver to deliver real and meaningful supports for children, families and schools. The NCSE is engaged with the planning process in respect of the expanded headcount and service delivery on foot of Budget 2023 announcement. This process will establish the priorities, work program and critical path activities to be undertaken in parallel by NCSE and the Department, to give effect to the recent budgetary announcement whilst also ensuring current service delivery is maintained.
Renewable Energy Generation
Questions (100)
Richard Boyd Barrett
Question:100. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Education to advise exactly when and how schools can apply for solar panels on their schools as part of the commitment the Government gave in September 2022 to put solar on all schools for free; when he expects the first solar panels to be put on the first schools under the commitment made almost eight months ago in September 2022; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22729/23]
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As the Deputy is aware, Budget 2023 included the announcement for the provision of fully funded solar photovoltaic (PV) panels with an output of 6kW for all schools. This funding will be made available from the Climate Action Fund at the discretion of the Minister for the Environment.
This significant solar PV programme, will assist schools with their energy needs and costs along with supporting the decarbonisation of our school buildings. This programme is a joint venture between the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) and the Department of Education (DoE), and will form part of the Government response to meeting the 2030 and 2050 climate action targets for the school sector.
As part of the preparation for the roll out of the national programme, a key first step was to establish the level of existing PV installations across the overall school estate. I can advise, that the survey in respect of the number of solar PV panels that are installed in schools across the country is now complete. The survey indicates that approximately 10% of post-primary schools and 5% of primary schools already have solar PV panels installed.
Schools designed and built in accordance with the Department’s schools technical guidance documents, have been achieving A3 Building Energy Ratings since 2009, with current schools typically achieving up to 20% higher energy performance and 25% better carbon performance than required by the current Building Regulations. In addition, 10% of primary energy is provided via photovoltaics and infrastructure provision for electric vehicle charging.
In addition to this, under the jointly funded pathfinder programme, established by the Department of Education and the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications, 48 school projects across Ireland have undergone significant decarbonisation upgrades to bring the Building Energy Rating (BER) of their schools up to a B rating, through deep retrofitting of the schools and installation of low carbon heating solutions. There are also a further 16 schools, currently at various stages of this retrofitting progress.
As part of commitments under the Government’s Climate Action Plan, my Department will complete its decarbonisation pathway roadmap, to meet 2030 and 2050 targets for the schools sector by the end of this year.
In respect of the roll out of the solar PV programme, I can advise that my Department officials are working closely with colleagues in the Department of Environment, Climate and Communication in relation to the arrangements for this scheme. In parallel, the Department is developing the strategic management requirements for provision of a multi annual solar PV delivery programme for primary and post primary schools.
The solar panel programme for schools is detailed in the published Climate Action Plan 2023, to be developed with roll out of the multi-annual delivery programme commencing in late 2023.
I will also be announcing in due course, an enhanced climate action Summer Works Scheme programme, to enable the progression of climate action specific initiatives which will assist with the rollout of smaller scale energy retrofit works in schools.
The Summer Works Scheme programme has for many years featured categories of works that assist in improving energy reduction in schools such as heating system upgrades, roof insulation upgrades, high performance window upgrades and electrical upgrades.
Schools Building Projects
Questions (101, 120)
Patrick Costello
Question:101. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Education the current status of works in Our Lady of Lourdes national school, Inchicore, Dublin 8; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22896/23]
View answer
Joan Collins
Question:120. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Education the reason there is such a delay in granting the go ahead of the new build for a school (details supplied) in view that it is now 14 weeks since the school submitted a request to progress the build; and if she will meet with the principal as soon as possible so this new build can go ahead. [22811/23]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 101 and 120 together.
The school building project to which the Deputy refers is included in my Department's Large Scale Capital Programme, The scope of work is to provide 16 classrooms, 10 SET rooms, GP room, a 2 CR SEN base and all ancillary accommodation.
The project is currently at Stage 3 - Tender Action and Award. A Stage 3 Tender Report identifying a recommended bidder is with my Department for review.
Works are estimated to take 22 months to complete.
Schools Building Projects
Questions (102)
Matt Carthy
Question:102. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Education if she will provide an update in respect of the application for capital funding under the additional school accommodation scheme by a college (details supplied) in Carrickmacross, County Monaghan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22819/23]
View answerWritten answers
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the school in question has been approved in principle, for nine general classrooms, under the Additional School Accommodation scheme via my Department's SEN Reconfiguration/Modular Accommodation Programme.
Officials are currently at the final stage of assessment and expect to communicate with the school authority shortly.
School Curriculum
Questions (103)
Marian Harkin
Question:103. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Education if she will consider providing a Level 2 Leaving Certificate cycle for the 2023/2024 school year for students currently undertaking a Level 2 Junior Certificate Programme (details supplied). [22529/23]
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In March 2022, I announced an ambitious programme of work for a reimagined Senior Cycle of education where the student is at the centre of their Senior Cycle experience which will:
• Empower students to meet the challenges of the 21st century
• Enrich the student experience and build on what’s strong in our current system
• Embed wellbeing and reduce student stress levels
The redeveloped Senior Cycle will involve the creation and development of more flexible learning pathways within school.
My approach to Senior Cycle redevelopment is ambitious, optimistic and inclusive. Senior Cycle redevelopment will ensure that the diversity of students’ learning needs and strengths are addressed and that all learning pathways in school are accessible and equally valued. It will broaden the ways used to assess and accredit students’ achievement, to better reflect and encourage the learning we wish to promote.
In a redeveloped Senior Cycle, real opportunities to progress, consolidate and transfer learning should be available for students of Level 1 and Level 2 Learning Programmes, for those who can currently access these programmes at Junior Cycle.
As part of the reform process, I requested the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) to develop follow-on programmes for students studying Level 1 and Level 2 Learning Programmes (L1/L2LPs) in Junior Cycle as they progress to Senior Cycle.
To commence this process, the NCCA has completed a review of the L1/L2LPs in Junior Cycle, during which it also sought to learn more from schools about their curriculum provision for students in Senior Cycle who followed L1/L2LPs in Junior Cycle. The findings of the review are informing the work of the Post Primary Special Education Development Group which is tasked with the development of follow-on Senior Cycle modules for students progressing from Level 1 and Level 2 Learning Programmes.
These modules will be student-centred and age-, peer- and learning needs appropriate and contribute to students’ intellectual, social and personal growth and maturity.
The NCCA has recently completed a public consultation on the Background Paper and Brief for the development of the follow-on modules for L1/L2LPs. Feedback from the public consultation will inform the work of the Post Primary Special Education Development Group.
It is expected that the development of the first tranche of modules will be completed in time for implementation in schools in September 2024.
Education Policy
Questions (104)
Alan Dillon
Question:104. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Education what policy measures are in place in primary and secondary schools for the prevention of obesity among young people; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22876/23]
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My Department works together with the Department of Health and other agencies to support students in the area of health. My Department acknowledges the commitment of schools in promoting healthy lifestyle choices for students in a number of ways - through the curriculum, for example Home Economics, Physical Education and Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE); through schools policy including healthy lunch policies; and by the use of resources and programmes chosen by the school such as the Active School Flag (ASF) is one such programme. Work by my Department in this area aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge to enable them to make the right choices for healthy lifestyles throughout their lives.
In relation to healthy eating, my Department supports Agri Aware’s Incredible Edibles programme, a healthy eating initiative for primary school pupils. The programme is also supported by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Department of Health. It encourages schools across the country to grow carrots, lettuce, potatoes, strawberries, turnips and herbs. Schools are supplied with grow packs, activity sheets and videos containing everything needed to grow these foods.
In addition, the Food Dudes Programme is a healthy eating programme developed to encourage children to eat more fresh fruit and vegetables. It is implemented in primary schools and is based on repeated tastings of fruit and vegetables supported by positive role modelling and rewards. The Food Dudes Programme is currently being implemented in Ireland under an EU six-year strategy framework covering the period 1 August 2017-July 2023.
Teaching of SPHE also addresses healthy behaviours. Work is underway to update the SPHE curriculum including at primary, Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle. A new Junior Cycle SPHE curriculum has been finalised by the NCCA, following extensive public consultation, for roll out in schools in September and the draft specification published last year includes a strand on Making Healthy Choices, including a learning outcome relating to what being healthy might look like for an adolescent, including food, physical activity and other areas.
Special Educational Needs
Questions (105)
Ruairí Ó Murchú
Question:105. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Education if she will provide an update on the progress being made to open additional units for children for September 2023 with autism at primary and second level schools in County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22883/23]
View answerWritten answers
I would like to thank the Deputy for the question and would like to advise the following:
Enabling children with special educational needs (SEN) to receive an education appropriate to their needs is a priority for this Government.
It is also a key priority for me as Minister for Special Education & Inclusion, for my Department and for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
For 2023, the spend by my Department on special education will be substantially increased by over 10% on last year, meaning that for 2023 my department will spend over €2.6 billion providing supports to children and young people with special educational needs and their schools.
This level of educational funding and support is unprecedented and represents in excess of 27% of the department’s total allocation for 2023.
This includes funding to support children with SEN in mainstream classes; funding for new special classes and new special school places; additional special educational teachers and special needs assistants.
The NCSE has responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children with special educational needs nationwide.
Over the last two to three years, my Department and the NCSE have introduced a number of strategic initiatives to plan for and provide sufficient special class and special school places.
These initiatives are bearing fruit with over 600 new special classes sanctioned at primary level, almost 300 new special classes sanctioned at post-primary level and five new special schools established over the last three years.
My Department is engaging intensely with the NCSE in relation to the forward planning of new special classes and additional special school places. This work involves a detailed review of statistical data in relation to forecasting demand for special class places, consideration of improved data sharing arrangements and a particular focus on the provision of special classes at post-primary level.
As a result of this forward planning, on the 12th of April, Minister Foley and I announced the establishment of 2 new special schools for the 2023/2024 school year, with further capacity being expanded in 11 other special schools.
Along with the two new special schools, 305 new special classes – 197 at primary and 108 at post-primary level – have been sanctioned by the NCSE for opening in the 2023/24 school year, with more to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Of these new classes, 17 are in Co. Louth, with 11 at primary level and 6 at post-primary level. These new classes will bring the total number of special classes in Co. Louth to 87 - 66 at primary and 21 at post-primary level.
As demand for new special classes at post-primary level is expected to increase significantly over the next few years, due to increasing demographics and increasing prevalence rates, my Department and the NCSE have engaged with post-primary stakeholders in relation to the provision of special classes.
In October of last year, my Department wrote to all post-primary schools to advise them of the need to begin planning to provide additional special classes. It is envisaged that all post-primary schools will be required to provide special classes over the next 3 to 5 years, with an approximate average of 4 special classes in each school.
Parents seeking special class placements for their children are advised to contact the NCSE locally so that their needs can be taken into account for planning purposes. The local SENOs remain available to assist and advise parents of children with special educational needs. Parents may contact SENOs directly using the contact details available at: ncse.ie/regional-services-contact-list .
Information on the list of schools with special classes, the types and locations of these classes is published on the NCSE website and is available at www.ncse.ie
I want to reassure you also that my Department will continue to support the NCSE and schools through the provision of the necessary funding and capital investment to ensure all children are successful in accessing an education.